Mental Health workers in Northland are celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week by trying to break down the barriers of discrimination and stigma.
Te Whare Awhina at Hokianga Health has organised a daily programme of community activities this week to mark the occasion.
The community mental health support team leader, Venus Barber, says this year's theme - "Don't give up, work as a team and, importantly, have fun" - fits in with the spirit of the Rugby World Cup.
She says that on Monday, the first day of Mental Health Awareness Week, groups from various parts of Northland gathered in Kaikohe for a short hikoi.
Ms Barber says Tuesday's activity is a silent auction of donated paintings, and the launch of a tried-and-true recipe book.
She says all the money raised will being used to fund community activities over the next year.
